I won't trade my identity to please market: Douzi

Daily News Egypt

22-07-2025

With a style rooted in authenticity and a voice that resonates across borders, Moroccan pop singer Abdelhafid Douzi speaks to the Arab world from the heart. In this conversation, he reflects on his growing connection with Egyptian audience, the evolution of Moroccan music, and why staying true to his roots has been the key to his success.
Do you still see dialect as a barrier for Moroccan music to spread across the Arab world?
Not at all. I see it as a strength. Growing up in Morocco, we were exposed to Egyptian, Gulf, and Lebanese music. We didn't always understand every word, but we connected emotionally first—and understanding followed. That's the power of music: it reaches the heart before the mind.
What's beautiful now is that I have a strong Egyptian fanbase who speak to me in Moroccan. This didn't happen through translation—it happened through listening, love, and curiosity. Some young Egyptians even picked up the dialect just from music, social media, and friendships with Moroccans. That shows how far music can go.
The Moroccan dialect isn't really hard—it just takes exposure. A few listens are enough before people start recognising words, then understanding, and finally singing along. It's only a matter of time.
How do you see your artistic presence in Egypt?
Egypt is the cultural capital of the Arab world. It has a deep musical heritage, an aware audience, and media that truly understands art. Being active in Egypt isn't a luxury—it's essential for any Arab singer who wants to last.
My collaboration with Mohsen Gaber and Mazzika on 'Qamar' wasn't just a professional move—it was a turning point. I needed to speak to the Arab world in my own voice and dialect without sacrificing who I am. Egypt gave me that chance. The Egyptian audience is very open to anything real and heartfelt, and that gave me confidence to keep building my musical journey with passion.
Could you tell us about your duet with Diana Haddad?
It was one of the most rewarding experiences recently. Diana has a beautiful voice and, beyond that, real artistic vision and emotional depth. When she sent me the song, I immediately felt good vibes—a summery feel, catchy rhythm, and lyrics that work from the first listen.
I suggested doing it in Moroccan, and she loved the idea. I asked if she'd prefer Egyptian, but she said: 'No—we want it fully Moroccan.' My brother and I wrote the lyrics to keep them simple and relatable so that Arab listeners everywhere could enjoy them.
When we finished recording, the harmony between our voices felt completely natural. We filmed the video in Dubai with a great team, and thankfully, it connected with audiences in many countries.
Why do you think Moroccan music took time to gain regional popularity?
Moroccan music is rich in rhythm, melody, and message—but for years, it didn't get enough exposure. Media coverage was limited, and there weren't the digital tools we have today.
Many Moroccan artists had to sing in Levantine or Gulf dialects to get noticed, which slowed the rise of Moroccan dialect music. But today, things are different. The internet removed barriers, and social media gave Moroccan music its own space. Now, Arab listeners are looking for it and enjoying it. That didn't happen overnight—it came from years of effort and staying genuine.
Which songs do you consider milestones in your career?
Each stage of my journey has its own song. In 2005, I released a track in France that won a gold disc—that was my first breakthrough in Europe.
Later, 'Elli Nasini' was a turning point. It blended Indian, Moroccan, and pop elements, showing a new side of me. Then came 'Meryem,' which opened new doors—I reached audiences in Iraq, Turkey, and even parts of Eastern Europe.
Every song has been a new step, taught me something, and shaped who I am as an artist. That's the beauty of music—it keeps evolving.
How do you choose your songs?
I look for songs that are easy to love but have depth. I want melodies that are simple yet touching, and lyrics that speak to the heart without being predictable.
Today's audience often connects with a song from the first listen. The challenge is making something catchy but meaningful. It's not easy, but it works when you stay true to what you believe in.
Has living in Europe influenced your identity as an artist?
I've lived in Europe for over 25 years, so naturally, I've absorbed Western music. But the more I grew, the more I felt the need to hold on to my Moroccan and Arab identity.
I see it as my mission to represent where I come from. Whether performing in Paris or Dubai, I carry with me a message, a sound, and a culture I'm proud of.
What role has social media played in your journey?
It changed everything. Social media isn't just for promoting a song—it's for real connection. Sometimes a 15-second TikTok clip can spread faster than a TV music video.
I read comments and messages, learn what people love, and sometimes test new ideas online. It's become a direct, daily link with my audience.
What are you currently working on?
I'm working on a new track with a Latin American producer—it'll be a fresh blend of styles and rhythms. I'm also thinking about an album featuring different Arabic dialects, but always in my own voice and style.
There's even a short film idea I'm exploring. If I find the right story, I might step into cinema. I never say no to any project that's real and driven by passion. I'm always open to new adventures—as long as they reflect who I truly am.